hot yoga

I've been a couple of times. Nice studio, brand new. Mirrors line one wall, no goofy music, both times the instructor was excellent. You can rent a towel for $1 and get a large bottle of water for $2 which is great when you're running late and have just come from work so don't have the two items on you, and you really need them for this kind of yoga.

I think the one on 15th and 5th is part of the same chain as the one I go to on flatbush. Check out www.bikramyogaparkslope.com (the one on flatbush) and www.bikramyogasouthslope.com (the new one).

I've been to the bikram park slope for a few months now. Really like the instructors and the people working there.

As for Bikram vs. Vinyasa/Hatha...it's apples and oranges really. They are very different and I go to both for different reasons really. Vinyasa/Hatha is something that's closer to my heart, but I love the adrenaline rush from Bikram.

I'd say try Bikram for at least 3 classes (your first week is always ridiculously cheap at $20 for 1 week unlimited anyway) before you decide whether you like it or not and go with an open mind. Many people love it. Many people hate it. As they always say in yoga class, let go of all judgments.

Basic tips:
Drink lots of water on the day before your first class (I got a pounding headache a few hours after my first time...but it never happened again. They say it's about toxins flushing out?? I think it's just your body getting used to it).
Don't chug water DURING the class. You may think your body is asking for a ton of water, but nothing would make you feel more worst than a tummy full of swirling water as you get into a twist/position. Just sip throughout the class.
Go with a comfortable stomach (they always say go with an empty stomach, but I tend to feel hungry in the middle of the practice so I'll eat something real small and light about 1-2hrs b4 at least but nothing to make you feel full). Feeling full in a class is nausea-inducing.
Just rent the mat for $1 and the towel as well. I brought my own mat once but it smelled like the studio for the longest time. Not that the studio smells bad..it doesn't. It just has a ...bikram smell. And I didn't want my own regular mat to smell like that...heh...don't know if that makes sense but....
Lastly, enjoy each and every moment while you are in there! It's really invigorating to sweat like that...I always feel so cleansed.